Maybe it’s just us, but a cocktail somehow tastes better when sipped somewhere stunning. That Piña Colada is always more refreshing when you’re watching the orange sun set, and that martini is extra crisp when enjoyed with a view of city lights. So now that we’re more comfortable with going out, you can bet your bottom dollar that we’re hopping to a good al fresco bar. From speakeasies for a quiet night cap, to buzzing rooftops to bring your friends to, here are 8 al fresco bars around Metro Manila that you have to visit.
8 Al Fresco Bars in Manila for Your Next Barkada Hangout:
1. Ikomai & Tochi
Tucked away in Salcedo Village is Ikomai & Tochi, a spot so quaint you might miss it as you pass the sidewalk. This hole-in-the-wall specializes in Japanese street food-inspired dishes, but has an amazing selection of drinks too, complete with a curated a list of food and cocktail pairings. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to enjoy a nice dinner, reserve a garden seat here.
Ikomai and Tochi is located at Ground Floor, ACI Group Building, 147 H.V. Dela Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati. For Inquiries, you can check their website, Facebook, or Instagram page.
2. Chotto Matte
For a good Japanese Highball, we’ll go far and wide. In Chotto Matte, you’ll find a divine selection of this beloved Japanese drink—try a traditional concoction made from Japanese Whisky like the Classic Suntory Kakubin or imaginative upgrades like the Tequila Lime. You can come in during the evening to enjoy them with their fresh sushi, or late in the night when the party gets going (or better yet, do both)!
Chotto Matte is located at 28th Street, Corner 5th Ave, Neo Building, BGC, Taguig. For inquiries, you can check their Facebook or Instagram page.
3. The Penthouse 8747
If you’re looking for a new Friday night spot, make your way to the 22nd floor of I’M Hotel in Makati. You’ll find Penthouse 8747, a Great Gatsby-inspired rooftop bar with a breathtaking view of the city skyline. Lined with couches, this place was made for good friends to come and have fun. Grab your group, order a few drinks (their sparkling wine cocktails are one-of-a-kind) and dance the night away.
The Penthouse 8747 is located at 8747 Paseo de Roxas, Makati. For inquiries, you can check their website or Instagram page.
4. La Picara
You’ve probably seen their cheeky flamingo mug all over Instagram—a very fitting representation of La Picara’s super cheery atmosphere. Opened in 2019, this restaurant has quickly become a BGC hotspot for their Spanish delicacies and, of course, colorful cocktail selection. Start with their can’t-be-missed Fresa Colada (that Instagram-famous drink) and stay for their best-selling Sangria Picara.
La Picara is located at Level 2, One Bonifacio High Street Mall, High Street, Corner 5th Ave, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For inquiries, you can check their website, Facebook, or Instagram page.
5. 205
With a drink menu as impressive as their supersized bar, which it almost covers the stretch of the whole restaurant, you know you’re in for a good time at 205. We recommend taking a seat at their al fresco area for a candle-lit dinner in the evening, and staying as the place slowly transforms into a buzzing haunt. Depending on your mood, you can enjoy their well-concocted signature cocktails or a full bottle from their extensive liquor selection.
205 is located in C2 Upper Ground, High Street Central, BGC, Taguig. For inquiries, you can check their Facebook or Instagram page.
6. Sunset Bar
Just a short walk from the famed Spiral Buffet of Sofitel Philippine Plaza is the dreamy Sunset Bar. It’s a sun-soaked lounge framed by palm trees, offering a breathtaking view of skies and waters. The prosaic name says it all—reserve a spot in the late afternoon for that glorious Manila Bay sunset with a cocktail in hand.
Sunset Bar is located at CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay. For Inquiries, you can check their website.
7. C Lounge
The Seaside Boulevard offers the best views of Manila Bay, so it’s no wonder why water-facing bars are awash in the area; one that’s a particular standout is the C Lounge. Located three floors up in Conrad Hotel, this spot offers unobstructed views of Manila Bay. Grab a date, choose a drink (you’re sure to find one from their sixteen-page beverage menu), and soak in that famed sunset.
C Lounge is located at Seaside Boulevard Corner Coral Way Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay. For inquiries, you can check their website and Facebook page.
8. Cafe Guilt
Very rarely do we find a place that we love during the daytime as much as we do at night, but this newly-opened haunt hits the nail on the head. Cafe Guilt is a beloved spot for brunching, but has a cocktail menu that’s great for late nights too. After dinner at a nearby restaurant (the place sits right at the heart of a buzzing gastronomic locale), find your way to Cafe Guilt’s outside seating area to get a nightcap.
Cafe Guilt is located at 35 Scout Castor Street, Corner Scout Reyes, Quezon City. For inquiries, you can check their Facebook or Instagram page.
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